One of the highest stations on the DLR network is to get six escalators to relieve passenger congestion.
Pontoon Dock station is approximately 13 metres above street level and passengers currently have to use the lifts and stairs.
At peak times around half of passengers rely on the lifts, which often leads to congestion and longer journey times.
Transport for London says the new escalators and an accompanying larger mezzanine level will reduce queuing, passenger pressure on the lifts, and improve step-free access for those who need it.
The plans are part of a £43.9 million major upgrade to meet the needs of growing passenger numbers.
Transport for London anticipates that the redevelopment of the area will lead around 4,500 more customers using the station during peak times, an increase of 415 per cent.
The development of the station and its surrounding area is part of the wider Silvertown Quays development, which aims to create a neighbourhood which includes housing and employment space.
The upgrade of Pontoon Dock station is 75 per cent third-party funded, with contributions from Homes England (the government’s housing and regeneration agency) and the Greater London Authority (GLA), developer contributions from Lendlease and funding from TfL’s Sustainable Housing and Accessibility Fund.
The detailed design and build contract for the upgrade has been awarded to Morgan Sindall Infrastructure, a UK construction and infrastructure company.
Construction work is scheduled to begin in summer 2026 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2028.
The station is expected to remain open throughout the majority of works, ensuring passengers can continue to travel as normal while improvements are made.
Alex Williams, Chief Customer and Strategy Officer at Transport for London, said: "Our vision is a London where everyone can move around the city safely, comfortably and sustainably. The transformation at Pontoon Dock will make life easier and more comfortable for customers, through reduced congestion and enhanced accessibility. It will also play a central role in supporting important regeneration in the local area, helping to unlock around 6,500 new homes and 10,000 new jobs at Silvertown Quays."
